Friday, August 14, 2009

A Feast Of Pretty Dishes

Fine china... to some an outdated tradition, to others a sign of taste and elegance. As a little girl I listened to my mother's constant banters about entertaining and the importance of a timeless set of China. I knew that one day, I would have my own. However, I never thought the day would come so soon.

Here I am, the proud owner of my very own set of china (pictured above). It is a big deal for me considering I am new to the world of dish-ware.

Now about my very perfect set and some history behind the choosing of this important piece of a new home...

As I walked through the 3rd floor of Macy's with my very best of girlfriends, Alexis, I noticed the various shapes and patterns of beautifully polished china nestled on the shelves screaming for my attention. I walked past the Kate Spade stand and noted the cuteness of the polka dots, and the adorable baby blue tint surrounded by a silver line of one particular set of Vera Wang china.

Step by step I passed the dishes, and marveled, but never felt a moment of connection. As I came to the farthest corner, looking up I noticed a very simple tea cup sitting atop a dish. I kept looking, somehow drawn by a small silver swirl on the cup. I was instantly captivated. It was not a "screaming with joy" reaction of a little girl in a toy store, but more of a noting of beauty. I turned to my friend and mentioned how I thought that set was very elegant. Then we walked on.

Weeks later I went back with my mother, and as I passed that corner, the silver swirl teased me. Looking at my mother I said, "That's MY china right there." She looked at me in awe, probably wondering how I became so sure of this. Of course, we walked away.

The next day she told me, "You have very good taste, that is a simple set you will still love in 10 years," of course, flattered by her statement I agreed, boasting, "I will love it forever."